Art has a unique ability to further an understanding of ourselves, of others and of our times. It feeds the soul. And it can be a tool, offering a nuanced view of the past as well as a common future.
Through American art and craft, the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) shares the stories of our nation to inspire reflection, spark dialogue and build connection toward a better shared future.
Securing support for top priorities will equip SAAM with the talent and resources needed to shape and promote American art and craft. As the flagship museum in its field, we employ innovative and fresh approaches to exhibitions, interpretation, public programs, scholarship and education. The museum is committed to expanding perspectives and to encompassing more voices and visions with the overarching goal of increasing our reach, relevance and impact.
Among the top five most visited art museums in the country, SAAM aims to offer visitors a highly accessible and engaging experience. The museum plans a deeper exploration of inclusive design, virtual reality and augmented reality. A data-driven approach is necessary to understand changing demographics and visitation. Funds will also support American Voices and Visions, a multiyear re-envisioning of SAAM’s permanent collection galleries that better highlights the contributions of Asian American, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and women artists. This project will feature redesigned galleries; improved wayfinding; more welcoming lobbies; a dedicated space for time-based media/video art to draw in younger audiences; enhancement of the Lunder Conservation Center; and new interpretative tools for the open storage displays in the Luce Center for American Art.
Funding special initiatives in conservation, exhibitions and education—including professional development training for teachers—enrich the visitor experience, engage new audiences, help us reach more students in more places and steward the national collections for future generations.